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This is the oldest synagogue in the United States and the second oldest in the Western Hemisphere. Visit the official website for more information about how to schedule your tour. In Charlotte Amalie, there are several museums, historical buildings, and sites to see. They are nice to do, but only worthwhile if you have the time in your schedule (you will need at least 2 to 3 days in St. Thomas). This is a quiet, shady, lovely spot to visit and worth it for those with an interest in tropical plants and seeing the local flora and fauna.
Dining and Food Options at Charlotte Amalie St. Thomas Cruise Port
If you’re reading this, you already know that a cruise is a wonderful way to relax and unwind. To discover the ultimate Caribbean escape, find a cruise that includes St. Thomas. No one knows if he used the bench to watch over his own ships or if he plotted to invade the others as he sat. It’s said that Sir Francis Drake used to sit on the bench to use as a vantage point. For this one, you might want to rent a car or it might be included on an island tour.
Taking the Skyride Is One of the Most Unique Things to Do in St. Thomas, USVI
Founded in 1666 as Thapus, the city was renamed in 1691 as Charlotte Amalie in honor of the Danish Queen. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone alleys and admire the beautiful Danish colonial architecture.
Island Tour
We highly recommend a visit to Water Island if you’re looking for what to do in St Thomas on a cruise day, especially if you need a peaceful beach day. Exploring Water Island is a wonderful cruise excursion in St Thomas, perfect if you’re seeking a more authentic island vibe. This smaller, less developed island is easily accessible, with a ferry from Tickles Dockside Pub that only takes about 10 minutes. If you’re planning to catch a ferry from Red Hook, allocate enough time for the taxi ride and any potential waits. For instance, if your ship docks at 8 AM, consider the 10 AM ferry as a safer bet to avoid rushing. 🎒 Here, you can book the swimming with turtles and beach catamaran cruise.
Drake’s Seat
While there, we were entertained by a local steel drum musician. After the short break, we drove back through the city and along the coastal harbor road. St. Thomas features a wide variety of restaurants and beach bars. Most cater to American tastes, but you can find one or two spots that have a more authentic Caribbean flavor, such as Crabbe's and Gladys'.
One thing to note is the education and conservation work that Coral World Ocean Park carries out and many of the animals you will see have been rescued. For example, the permanent resident sea turtles were rescued as hatchlings and the park also has a rehabilitation centre for sick and injured sea turtles. This area is easily walkable and so for anyone looking to get off the ship and have a wonder around, this is the best option. There are shops, bars and restaurants that could easily help you while away the hours. Upon leaving the urban area of the city, one of the common themes that the driver kept referring to was how the recent hurricanes had affected life on the island.
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Two Days in St. Thomas
You can also pre-arrange tour packages for Coral World Ocean Park that include Coki Beach. You can also pre-arrange tour packages that include beach stops at Magens Beach or other popular beaches with other St. Thomas attractions on-line. Larger ships such as the Oasis-class ships from Royal Caribbean must use the dock at Crown Bay. And, other Royal Caribbean and Celebrity ships will often be scheduled to dock there as well. That said, depending on the number of ships expected in port on a particular day, your ship could be assigned to either port. While the Havensight Mall is great for those not looking to go out of their way, you’ll want to head into Charlotte Amalie for the best shopping experience.
Paradise Point near St Thomas Cruise Port
With over 40 major beaches and a number of smaller coves, St. Thomas is a beach-lover’s paradise. You’ll find one at every turn, each one more beautiful than the next, making exploring the island’s many stretches of sand one of the best things to do in St. Thomas. Cruise ships typically spend eight to nine hours in Charlotte Amalie before continuing on to other Caribbean destinations. However, this time frame includes the time it takes for everyone to get off and on the ship, and traveling to and from the places you wish to visit. Planning your time there will be crucial if you want to do more than just one thing.
St. Thomas Cruise Port: Piers, Overview and What to Do - Cruise Hive
St. Thomas Cruise Port: Piers, Overview and What to Do.
Posted: Tue, 16 Apr 2024 01:42:20 GMT [source]
Overall, there’s everything you need for a relaxing day on the beach. A taxi from the cruise port to Secret Harbor Beach is approximately $10 each way but the beach itself is free to use. Once at harbor level, it is easy to see the difference between those that can afford the lifestyle of the sea and those that must live along the city’s hilly streets. Once back in the Havensight cruise port area, we have access to the Skyride to Paradise Point. On this particular trip (since it has been 26 years since my last visit to St Thomas), I decided to take a quick sightseeing tour to get a feel for the island.

You won’t find as many services as in Magen’s Bay, but the expansive views of Smith Bay and St. John are worth the park’s small entrance fee. Pack your lunch, though, as there are no restaurants or bars here. To help you figure out what not to miss when calling this port, we have put together a list of eight things to do in St. Thomas, U.S.V.I., even for those who have visited before. Prior to booking your ticket, look at the prices of going directly with your cruise line or on your own. Sometimes, it is cheaper to book the Skyride to Paradise point through the cruise line, rather than purchasing a ticket upon arrival. You can order different beach bites, like chips and salsa, chicken tenders, and jalapeño poppers, as well as sandwiches, salads, tacos, and burgers.
For most of the walk, you are on a sidewalk, but the last part of the “hike” is along the road. It’s a mostly downhill walk to the beach and a mostly uphill walk back to the entrance gate. To get to the Mermaid’s Chair, you will walk from the entrance gate to the beach. The security guard will take your photo and give you a map of the community. If you plan to walk to the beach, there are many signs directing you to Mermaid’s Chair, so it is easy to find.
It is conveniently located within close proximity to major airports, making it easily accessible for travelers from all over the world. Once you arrive at the port, you will be greeted by friendly staff and a warm island welcome. St. Thomas is a popular cruise destination, so many people get here by cruise ship and then spend a day on the island. I've only been to St. Thomas once - and it was as a cruise port - and many years ago. We also walked right by the edge of the waterfront, admiring views of our own cruise ship and beyond.
Additionally, you will find restrooms, picnic tables, and a lifeguard. You will have to pay about $5 per person for admission, and you can rent chairs on the beach. Once your know your cruise itinerary, see what unique AirBnB experiences are available in the area on the day of your visit. This delicious eatery is located in the middle of Charlotte Amalie’s historic district. You can reach it either by walking, taking a taxi, or riding a local Vitran bus.
If you’re someone who enjoys slower moments at each cruise stop, then one of the best things to do in St. Thomas is to make your way to a beautiful botanical garden just south of Magens Bay. Choose a doors-off option to feel the cool ocean air blow past as you explore the islands from the sky. Just imagine your family’s reaction to the pictures you’ll be able to take. If you aren’t interested in purchasing additional opportunities, you’ll still have plenty to do with the sea animal touch pools, stingray lagoon, and the underwater observatory tower.
If you enjoy a fun and off the beaten path activity, check out this shore excursion. If you’ve dreamed of swimming with turtles (me!), consider this St. Thomas snorkeling excursion. One of the excursions that comes most recommended, is a visit to the neighboring island of St. John. In contrast to bustling St. Thomas, St. John is a much less busy and not commercialized as most of the island is part of the US Virgin Islands National Park. Inside the Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas, you’ll get a brief history of the synagogue, the Jewish history of the island, and the significance of it’s sand floor. In Charlotte Amalie, you’ll find hundreds of brand name and local shops along Main Street and the cross streets.
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